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7 Celebs Who Played Iconic Women in History

Some of the most iconic women in history have had their stories told on-screen! From Salma Hayek to Jennifer Lopez, here are seven celebrities who have played the role of a few notable mujeres:

1.
Yaya DaCosta Alafia as Whitney Houston

Yaya DaCosta Alafia is playing the late Grammy Award-winning artist, Whitney Houston, in a forthcoming Lifetime biopic. This first picture of DaCosta immersed in her role as Houston was released on the morning of July 10. "First look: Yaya DaCosta as Whitney Houston in Lifetime's biopic. She re-created Whitney's 1987 album cover," Entertainment Editor Chris Witherspoon tweeted. The TV movie, directed by Angela Bassett, remains untitled and is set to be released in 2015.

2.
Salma Hayek as Frida Kahlo

In 2002, Salma Hayek took on the role of the late Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Hayek's portrayal of the iconic figure landed her the Imagen Award for Best Actress and eight nominations, including Academy Award for Best Actress and Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama.

3.
Rosario Dawson as Dolores Huerta

Starring in Cesar Chavez, Rosario Dawson played the role of civil rights activist Dolores Huerta. "I like playing women who make their presence known in their community," Dawson said during an interview.

4.
Jennifer Lopez as Selena

5.
Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone

Zoe Saldana was tapped to star as jazz singer Nina Simone in the biopic Nina. The Dominican and Puerto Rican actress received a ton of backlash for taking on the part. "What keeps me focused and what kept me from getting stressed from being hurt by the comments is I'm doing it for my sisters, I'm doing it for my brothers, and I don't care who tells me I am not this and I am not that," Saldana said in response to the critics. "I know who I am, and I know what Nina Simone means to me."

6.
Christina Aguilera as Eva Peron

7.
Chiquis as Jenni Rivera

Late last year, several outlets reported that Chiquis would be playing the role of her mother Jenni Rivera in a new film to be developed about the late singer. "It would be an honor to portray my mother in a movie," Chiquis told Univision.